Dispersed camping near Kootenai National Forest provides opportunities for backcountry experiences across more than 2.2 million acres of northwestern Montana. The forest ranges from 2,000 feet elevation in river valleys to over 7,000 feet on mountain peaks, with camping typically accessible from May through October. Winter conditions can arrive as early as September at higher elevations, with snow closing many forest roads.
What to do
Fish local waters: Cedar Creek Trailhead offers access to stream fishing after setting up camp in the parking area. "A spring runs next to the lot and if you have a filter, it makes for a great place to resupply on water," notes Clayton S., who stayed in June without issues from locals driving up.
Gold panning opportunities: Libby Creek Gold Panning Area allows primitive gold panning on an open claim. "We may have found a couple flecks of gold between four of us but we still had a fabulous time," reports Emmett S., who recommends being aware of mercury contamination from historical mining—keep dogs out of the water.
Water recreation: Upper Stillwater Lake provides excellent paddling opportunities. "Under perfect weather conditions you have a glassy surface that your boat will glide right through. In not so perfect conditions? There are banks galore in which you can hunker down and enjoy a beverage and snacks and wait for the rain to pass," writes Denyel B.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The remote locations offer excellent stargazing conditions. "Perfect location for star gazing at night and the PNW Trail run close by," writes Brian N. about Red Meadow Lake.
Wildlife encounters: The forest hosts diverse wildlife including eagles, moose, mountain lions and smaller creatures. At Stillwater Lake, Stephany H. reports: "There is a lot of wildlife (eagles, moose mountain lion, beaver, chipmunk). Each site has a picnic table and fire ring."
Solitude: Many campers appreciate the uncrowded nature of these dispersed sites. "Arrived in the dark so it was a little tricky to pick out the campsites, but we found a great site with plenty of space to setup 5 tents. Camped on a Sunday night and didn't hear much noise from the road which doesn't seem to get too much traffic," Luke L. notes about Stillwater River.
What you should know
Forest service changes: Some areas have seen access modifications. At Sheldon Mountain, Kendra T. reports: "Officer came by to say these roads aren't supposed to be here (and many were already blocked off) but you can still park in any of the sandy/dirt road but can't pull off anywhere. Took our licenses down."
Mosquito protection: Insect repellent is essential, especially near water. Molly S. warns about Red Meadow Lake: "There can be a lot of mosquitos in the summer so be prepared!"
Cell coverage varies: Reception is inconsistent throughout the forest. Near Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp, Tee C. reports: "I get one bar of Verizon service but it's not very useful."
Bear safety: Food storage is critical in this active bear habitat. Molly S. notes that Red Meadow Lake "Sites include two bear boxes" while at Theriault Lakes Horse Camp, "Bear country so secure food storage is a must."
Tips for camping with families
Consider humidity effects: Some areas retain surprising moisture. Luke L. notes about Stillwater River: "It felt surprisingly humid in this area and it took a bit to dry the tents off in the morning from all the dew."
Pack extra supplies: Vault toilets may not be stocked. As Emmett S. recommends at Libby Creek Gold Panning Area: "There is a single vault toilet (bring your own tp)."
Accessible swimming options: For families seeking swimming opportunities, Theriault Lakes Horse Camp offers alternatives: "Little Theriault Lake is within walking distance" and nearby Howard Lake Campground (1.5 miles away) offers "swimming opportunities and other amenities."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Bull Lake, Emmett S. advises: "There are two access roads, the first is more appropriate for van, truck or hike in to tent site. Not a lot of turn around room, wouldn't bring a trailer in. Second turn off goes to a much larger area, multiple sites and boat launch access to the lake."
High-clearance recommendation: Forest roads often require appropriate vehicles. For Stillwater River, Emmett S. warns it's "more suitable for truck camping, van, tent camping or very small trailer like 13' max due to narrow track and limited maneuvering area. High clearance required!"
Prepare for rough access: Mountain roads can challenge larger rigs. Regarding Red Meadow Lake, Angela notes: "The road up is rough but it's worth it. We had two individuals with travel trailers and a truck camper. We sent the guy with the truck camper ahead to scope it out because we got nervous."
